By Sekaggya Seka Moses
In a video address from his office in Belgrade, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has invited representatives of the antigovernment protest movement to engage in a “democratic dialogue” and public debate about the country’s future.
The protests, which have been ongoing for nine months, were sparked by a tragic incident in November when a renovated railway station in Novi Sad collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 16 people.
The protesters have been demanding early elections, accusing the government of corruption, violence against political rivals, and suppressing media freedoms.
The government has denied these allegations. Despite the mostly peaceful nature of the protests, clashes earlier this month resulted in injuries and detentions.
Vucic’s Call for Dialogue
In his address, Vucic expressed his willingness to engage in a public debate with representatives of the students and other antigovernment protesters, including on TV.
“I invite the representatives of the blockade movement to a conversation and a public debate about visions, to discuss our plans and programmes for the future and all together condemn the violence on our streets,” he said.
Vucic proposed a discussion and debate on all major television stations and online portals with legitimate representatives chosen by the protesters.
“I want us to confront visions … to solve that through dialogue and conversation … no conflict, no violence,” he emphasized.
Opposition Parties Dismiss Talks
However, the opposition party Move-Change has dismissed the possibility of talks with the government.
Savo Manojlovic, the head of the party, stated that the government is corrupt and tramples on democracy and human rights.
“You don’t make a fire department with an arsonist,” he said, implying that the government is not fit to engage in meaningful dialogue.
The students’ representatives have also refused to engage in debates with Vucic outside of an election campaign.
“He [Vucic] has no answer to the popular rebellion … We will debate … during the campaign, afte the elections are announced,” they said in a statement.
Uncertain Future
With Vucic’s second and final five-year presidential term ending in 2027, when parliamentary elections are also due, the future of Serbia’s politics remains uncertain.
The outcome of the protests and the government’s response will likely have significant implications for the country’s trajectory.
Have An Advert Or Article You Want Us To Publish? Whatsapp: +256786288379 or email binocularugnews@gmail.com
